Step Free Tour of York
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore York with an award-winning, qualified historian guide! You'll travel back to the time of the romans, marvel at medieval fortifications and experience the Victorian boom that all helped contribute to making York the UK's "Second City."
There's no better way to squeeze 2,000 years of history into a single journey while you uncover hidden gems and city secrets you'd never find on your own.
Available options
Step Free Tour of York
What's included
An entertaining step-free tour by an expert local guide
Detailed itinerary
1
In this simple little piazza we'll uncover the story of the man who helped preserve the city of York as we know it today.
2
Once home to Henry VIII and Charles I, if these walls could talk, we'll tell you what they'd say!
3
We will travel under one of York's great city gates and find out which surprising confection got its' start right here.
4
Stop 4
Pass by
We'll travel around the entirety of York Minster, the largest gothic cathedral in Northern Europe. You'll hear the stories of those who created it - and those who tried to destroy it.
(External visit only.)
5
Stop 5
Pass by
Hear one of York's best known ghost stories at this haunted Jacobean manor.
(External visit only.)
6
The tallest of York's defences and once used as a prison and site of public announcements in the Medieval era. Find out who was kept here and why the portcullis got stuck.
7
This charming Tudor building masks a scandalous past...
(External visit only - this building is not open to the public.)
8
York was once the northern most region of the Roman Empire. Here we will hear the story of the rulers who called it home 2,000 yeas ago.
9
See the childhood home of one of York's most notorious figures and find out how he is still celebrated - and vilified - today.
(External visit only.)
10
This charming pedestrianised street was once the hub of progress in the city and today holds an array of fascinating shops and pubs.
11
Stop 11
Pass by
Once home of the Lord Mayor of York, this grand medieval building was once thought lost to time. Restored to its' former glory, it offers a literal glimpse of what life was like for wealthy medieval residents of the city.
(External visit only although we can view the Great Hall.)
12
Stop 12
Walk down one of the best preserved medieval streets in the world and take an opportunity to visit the home of York's patron saint.
13
Stop 13
Pass by
Stand on the site of one of the most important Viking settlements to be discovered in the UK. Hear the stories of those who once lived there and the surprising relic found here that told us all we ever wanted to know about the Vikings in York...
(External visit only.)
14
Stop 14
Pass by
Walk through all the remains of the ice nightly York Castle and hear the tales of heartbreak and bloodshed that took place here.
(External visit only - access into this building is not step-free.)
15
Stop 15
Pass by
Looking over the grounds of what was once mighty York Prison, you'll hear the story of the UK's most notorious criminal and the unlikely way he was caught here.
(External visit only.)
16
Journey along the beautiful River Ouse and hear how the water that flowed here changed the shape of the city.
17
Find out what makes this pub different than any other in the city and why grabbing 'one for the road' might not be as good of an idea as it sounds...
(External visit only.)
18
Journey into the ruins of a once great building and learn about the man who once controlled it.
19
Journey through the beautiful and tranquil York Museum Gardens, surrounding by reminders of long-gone eras.
20
Explore what remains the wealthiest religious complex in the country and hear about who destroyed it and why.
21
See the damage wrought by the English Civil War and find out why York managed to stay standing.
What's not included
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Just next to the statue of William Etty.
About York
York is a historic city in northern England, known for its well-preserved Roman and Viking heritage. With its medieval walls, stunning Gothic cathedral, and charming cobbled streets, York offers a unique blend of history, culture, and picturesque scenery.
Top Attractions
York Minster
York Minster is one of the most magnificent cathedrals in the world. It is a stunning example of Gothic architecture and has been a place of worship for over 1,000 years.
Historical
2-3 hours
£14
The Shambles
The Shambles is a historic street in York that dates back to the 14th century. It is one of the best-preserved medieval streets in Europe and is known for its narrow, cobbled lanes and overhanging timber-framed buildings.
Historical
30-60 minutes
Free
York Castle Museum
The York Castle Museum is a fascinating museum that tells the story of York from the Victorian era to the present day. It is housed in a former prison and features a range of interactive exhibits and displays.
Museum
2-3 hours
£15
Jorvik Viking Centre
The Jorvik Viking Centre is a museum that brings the Viking Age to life through a range of interactive exhibits and displays. It is built on the site of a major Viking settlement and features a ride that takes visitors on a journey through Viking York.
Historical
1-2 hours
£16.50
Clifford's Tower
Clifford's Tower is a historic tower that dates back to the 13th century. It is one of the most iconic landmarks in York and offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside.
Historical
1-2 hours
£8.50
National Railway Museum
The National Railway Museum is a museum that tells the story of Britain's railway history. It features a range of interactive exhibits and displays, as well as a collection of historic locomotives and carriages.
Museum
2-3 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Yorkshire Pudding
A traditional British dish made from a batter of eggs, flour, and milk, which is baked until crispy and golden. It is often served with roast beef and gravy.
Main Course
Contains gluten and eggs
Yorkshire Curry
A unique fusion of British and Indian cuisine, featuring a curry made with local ingredients such as Yorkshire lamb or pork.
Main Course
May contain gluten, dairy, and nuts
Fat Rascal
A traditional Yorkshire scone made with currants, citrus peel, and spices. It is often served with clotted cream and jam.
Dessert
Contains gluten, dairy, and eggs
Yorkshire Wontons
A modern twist on a traditional Chinese dish, featuring wontons filled with local ingredients such as Yorkshire cheese or pork.
Appetizer
May contain gluten, dairy, and pork
Popular Activities
Hiking in the North York Moors
Cycling along the River Ouse
Kayaking on the River Ouse
Spa treatments in Harrogate
Picnicking in the Museum Gardens
Strolling along the River Ouse
Visiting York Minster
Exploring the Jorvik Viking Centre
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the warmest and most popular time to visit York, with long daylight hours and numerous festivals and events. The city is bustling with tourists, and the weather is generally pleasant.
15-22°C
59-72°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
British Pound (GBP)
Time Zone
GMT+0 (Greenwich Mean Time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
York is generally a safe and welcoming city for visitors. However, as with any destination, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in crowded areas, so it is advisable to keep your valuables secure and be vigilant.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep your valuables secure and be vigilant in crowded areas
- • Avoid isolated areas at night
- • Be cautious of strangers approaching you with offers or requests
Getting there
By air
- Leeds Bradford Airport • 50 miles (80 km)
- Manchester Airport • 80 miles (129 km)
By train
York Railway Station
By bus
York Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The bus network in York is comprehensive, with frequent services to all parts of the city and surrounding areas. Buses are a convenient and affordable way to get around.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
The City Centre
Bootham
Micklegate
The Groves
Haxby
Day trips
Castle Howard
15 miles (24 km) • Half day
Castle Howard is a stunning stately home and gardens located just outside of York. It is known for its beautiful architecture, extensive gardens, and fascinating history. The estate is home to a range of attractions, including a museum, a library, and a number of walking trails.
The North York Moors
20 miles (32 km) • Full day
The North York Moors is a beautiful national park located just outside of York. It is known for its stunning landscapes, extensive walking trails, and fascinating wildlife. The park is home to a range of attractions, including a number of historic sites, as well as a number of charming villages and towns.
Whitby
30 miles (48 km) • Full day
Whitby is a charming coastal town located just outside of York. It is known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and fascinating literary connections. The town is home to a range of attractions, including a number of museums, a historic abbey, and a number of charming shops and cafes.
Festivals
York Festival of Food and Drink • September
York Christmas Market • December
York Early Music Festival • July
Pro tips
- Visit York Minster early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
- Explore the city's historic streets and alleys, such as The Shambles and Stonegate, for a unique and charming experience
- Take a guided tour of the city's medieval walls and underground chambers for a fascinating insight into its history
- Visit the York Castle Museum to learn about the city's social history and see a range of interactive exhibits and displays
- Attend a performance at the York Theatre Royal or the York Early Music Festival for a unique cultural experience
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
